High-resolution alpha-particle spectrometry of the 230U decay series

High-resolution alpha-particle spectrometry was performed on the 230U decay series. A 230U source was prepared on a stainless steel disc by electrodeposition in an ammonium nitrate solution. Spectrometry of the alpha-particle energy spectrum was performed with ion-implanted planar silicon detectors in vacuum. A set of alpha emission probabilities is presented for 230U and 226Th. The measured peak intensities were corrected mathematically for coincidental detection of alpha-particles and conversion electrons emitted in the same decay. A good agreement with literature data was observed. The uncertainty budget and the correlation matrix are presented. The validity of the alpha-particle energies was tested and could be confirmed for most peaks within a few keV, but discrepancies were found for the 2nd peak of 226Th and the main peak of 218Rn.

► Alpha emission probabilities for 230U and 226Th in agreement with literature data. ► Alpha energies of 230U decay series confirmed for most peaks within few keV. ► Discrepancies found for 2nd peak of 226Th and main peak of 218Rn.